Debbie Carnesecchi-MahonMembers of a Brownie Troop from St. Rita’s School in Meiers Corners help pack supplies they collected for U.S. soldiers serving overseas.STATEN ISLAND, NY – MEIERS CORNERS — A dozen second-graders from St. Rita’s School and members of Brownie Troop 5259, have been doing their part to brighten the holidays for Staten Island soldiers serving overseas.

The 7-year-olds, under the direction of troop leader Debbie Carnesecchi-Mahon and assistant Susan Greco, have been donating supplies and food that has been listed on the Project Homefront website.

To get the girls involved, Ms. Carnesecchi-Mahon added an incentive to contribute more than just one item. Any Scout who donated at least 10 items from the list would receive a "Serve My Troop" patch for their uniform vests. "They love getting patches," she added.

During their weekly meeting at St. Rita’s, students talked about the different branches of the military and what each does. The girls were asked to think about "how our soldiers must feel being far away in the desert, protecting our country, while their families are here, celebrating the holidays without them," Ms. Carnesecchi explained.

"The girls replied to that questions with ‘sad’, ‘angry’, ‘alone’, ‘cold’, ‘hungry’ and other descriptions. They truly understood the depth of emotions our soldiers feel."

Collectively the girls agreed that each would write a letter to a soldier with their return address, hoping to put a smile on their faces and maybe get a pen pal out of it. Some also drew photos and sent along artwork.

"Thank you for protecting me. Happy Holidays. For your birthday I will give you a birthday gift. I hope you stay safe. Be strong," wrote Amanda Mahon.

"Thank you for protecting our country. I pray for you. Are you okay? When are you coming home?" wrote Alyssa Carnesecchi.

Rebecca Andes wondered if the troops could use a supply of Band-Aids. "How are you doing? Do you need any Band-Aids. I hope you stay safe," she wrote.

Julia Fabozzi said she hoped the troops would "stay strong." "I hope you stay safe," she wrote. "Be strong for me. You’re my best friend."

Other students who penned notes to the troops were Alexandra and Antonia Greco, Nicole Conte, Erin Christie, Jillian Chance, Danica Villanueva, Alicia Kazberuk and Emily Puentes.

On Saturday the girls met at Project Homefront where they helped sort and box the supplies they collected that will be mailed overseas with their letters.

Debbie Parsons, who coordinates the packing and shipping of supplies for Project Homefront, said the donations are most welcome.

"I’m overwhelmed, it’s unbelievable," she said. "It’s amazing knowing that these men and women are not forgotten."